Trafalgar Square

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Photo by flickr user simonlesleyphoto

Pigeons cover all its exposed surfaces but they can’t deface this square’s historic importance or the grandeur of its presence. Nelson watches from way above on his column, and the lions have his back at the bottom in case there’s a fracas in the fountain or at the National Gallery.

The controversial fourth plinth enjoys a rotation of art from some of the art world’s most interesting characters, but the other three plinths are permanent homes for General Sir Charles James Napier, Major General Sir Henry Havelock and King George IV. In the southeast corner of the square is the world’s smallest police box, and under the stairs is the café where you can set yourself up with a hot beverage against the London chill, ready for a people watch if you don’t fancy chancing it amongst the pigeons.

Trafalgar Square is a central point in London's New Years Eve celebrations but best avoided unless you're really up for a party no holds barred - you're not allowed to have alcohol and it's supposed to be policed, but it can get pretty manic.

Written by  Kat Mackintosh.

Comments, reviews and questions by other travellers

Quintessential London

Nestled in between the National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery, and St. Martin-in-the-Fields, Trafalgar Square is a great place to visit for tourists and residents, alike.

Enjoy the paper and a hot tea from one of the many street vendors, or snap photos of yourself with such landmarks as Nelson’s Column, the Fourth Plinth, or the elegant fountains. Whatever your choice of activity, Trafalgar Square is a destination for excellent people-waching or a starting-off point for a day of exploring the city.

Known historically for festivals and demonstrations, that buzz of energy hums in the square continuously, and it is impossible to visit without catching the excitement it brings to London.

 Alex Witt - posted 24th January 2011

1 Reply

Street vendors? I think Alex was here a while ago, you're probably going to have to resort to tea from Pret, unless you get one from the gallery itself - which is only fair, seeing as the gallery is free!

 Emilie Stokes - posted 25th January 2011